What Does the COVID-19 Vaccine Mean for Your 2021 Wedding?

Back in September, Dr. Anthony Fauci recommended that couples consider pushing back their weddings to 2022 due to the pandemic. As head of the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases, he’s not just a trusted source, he’s the trusted source on all COVID-19 inquiries.

But, with the latest vaccine news—including Biden's announcement that every adult in the U.S. is eligible to receive the vaccine as of April 19; and the latest CDC guidance that fully vaccinated people can go mask-free in small outdoor settings—couples are now wondering: Will a "normal" wedding be possible in 2021?

Below, we break down the latest vaccine news, discuss how it relates to weddings, and speak with health officials and industry experts about the vaccine's impact on weddings in 2021.

A Timeline of the Latest Vaccine News and Recommended Guidance

Right now, news of vaccine distribution feels like the "light at the end of the tunnel" for many. Here, a look at where we stand.

April 27, 2021: Fully Vaccinated People Can Go Without Masks Outdoors

On April 27, the CDC released a number of new guidelines for fully vaccinated individuals. People who have received both doses of the vaccine can now forgo wearing a mask when participating in most outdoor activities.

Additionally, the CDC says fully vaccinated people can visit each other indoors without wearing masks or physical distancing, and resume domestic travel without needing to self-quarantine after. The CDC considers a person fully vaccinated once two weeks have passed since their second vaccine dose.

As for what the updated guidelines mean for 2021 weddings, the CDC is still recommending that even fully vaccinated people wear a mask at large outdoor gatherings and avoid large indoor gatherings altogether.

Source: Brides.com